Few things are more frustrating than being involved in an accident where the other driver takes off. Whether your car is struck on the road or someone damages your house or parked car in the driveway, a hit-and-run can leave you feeling stuck.
At South Carolina Insurance Brokers (SCIB), we know how stressful these situations can be — and we’re here to help you understand the right steps to take, how insurance works, and how to protect yourself moving forward.
Step 1: Put Safety First
- On the road: Move your vehicle to a safe spot and check for injuries. Call 911 if anyone needs medical attention.
- At home: If a driver hits your house, fence, garage, or parked car, make sure everyone is safe before addressing the damage.
Step 2: Call the Police
Filing a police report is critical. Not only does it create an official record of the hit-and-run, but it’s also often required to file an insurance claim. Share as much detail as possible with officers, including:
- Time and place of the incident
- Any details about the other vehicle (color, make, model, license plate)
- Photos of the scene and damage
- Witness information or video evidence (security or doorbell cameras can make a big difference)
Step 3: Document Everything
Take photos from different angles, write down what happened, and collect any available evidence. If the damage occurred at your home, don’t forget to include shots of your property along with your car. The more documentation you have, the smoother your claim process will be.
Step 4: Call SCIB to Review Your Coverage and File a Claim
After you’ve contacted the authorities, your next call should be to your insurance agent. At SCIB, we’ll walk you through the process step by step and help you understand which part of your policy applies:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: In South Carolina, auto policies are required to include this coverage, and it can help if the at-fault driver can’t be identified.
- Collision Coverage: Helps pay for repairs to your car, even if the other driver flees.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Can step in if your car was parked and damaged by a hit-and-run driver.
- Homeowners Insurance: Covers damage to your house, garage, or other structures if a driver crashes into your property.
Every claim is unique, and SCIB will make sure you get the guidance you need to protect both your finances and peace of mind.
Step 5: Plan Ahead for the Future
Unfortunately, hit-and-runs happen more often than we’d like to think. SCIB recommends:
- Reviewing your auto policy to confirm you have collision and uninsured motorist coverage.
- Checking your homeowners coverage for property damage protection.
- Adding home security cameras for an extra layer of protection and evidence if an incident occurs.
Final Thoughts
A hit-and-run is stressful, but you’re not alone. With the right coverage in place, SCIB can help you recover quickly and keep your life moving forward.
👉 Need a policy review? Contact South Carolina Insurance Brokers today. We’ll make sure you have the right protection — for your car, your home, and your peace of mind.
